Survey Technician 2(A)-(B)

About Us

Nova Scotia is rich in natural resources – including biodiversity, forests, geological resources, provincial parks and the land we manage. The Department of Natural Resources is responsible for the development, management, conservation and protection of forest, mineral, parks and wildlife resources and the administration of the province's Crown land. Together we are working with Nova Scotians to build a better future through sustainable natural resource management as we all benefit from the natural health and wealth of the province.

About Our Opportunity

We are looking for a qualified Geomatics Engineering Technologist to provide legal property boundary, topographical and other geospatial survey functions for multiple government departments in support of provincial land management. 

Primary Accountabilities

• Contributing to the establishment, investigation, and re-establishment of land and property boundaries, location, ownership, and preparation of plans and legal descriptions for tracts of land and myriad other planning and operational strategies.

• Providing technical support and leadership by delivering expert advice and solutions on GIS mapping, modeling and research and analysis. This advice will keep in mind the strategic initiatives and on-going legislative requirements related to land management, land use and land acquisition and public inquiries or complaints related to land use violations as well as boundary, land title and/or right of way disputes. 

• Planning, executing, and supporting the work of survey teams for a wide range of Crown Land survey project and related operations.

• Involved in extensive research, complex geo-referencing calculations and preparation of survey plans, legal boundary descriptions and associated documents.

• Conducting, supervising and coordinating the collection, computation and recording of field surveying data using the latest in electronic and satellite-based technology.

• Extracting, compiling and interpreting geoscientific data obtained from aerial photography, satellite imagery and other remote sensing equipment, using a range of specialized software such as Carlson Survey, ArcGIS, and several advanced GNSS (global navigation satellite system) processing software and firmware package.

• Participating in all aspects of the fieldwork of the survey team. This position’s primary area of responsibility will include survey work to support the mapping and maintenance of Crown boundaries. 

This position reports to the Crown Land Surveyor.

Qualifications and Experience

To be considered for this opportunity, you have a Diploma in Surveying Technology. An acceptable equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered. You will have some experience in geomatics, i.e.: integration of acquisition, modeling, analysis and management of spatially referenced data.

You have some knowledge in the use of computers and software used to digitally transform and shape spatial data, (e.g., programs such as to ArcMap, GPS processing programs, Carlson Survey and transformation/conversion software). Your understanding and training in map projections, error analysis, geodetic computations, reference datums, geoids, ellipsoids, coordinate transformations and other geospatial factors will be used in this position.

You possess (or have ability to quickly acquire) some knowledge of survey law, key provincial statutes, property law, regulatory requirements, current and past processes in land registration and historical knowledge of land transactions in Nova Scotia dating back more than 200 years.

You can interpret physical survey evidence and properly rate that evidence in the determination of legal boundaries.  You are also proficient in the operation, maintenance and integration of Electronic Total Stations, all levels of GNSS equipment, and other related tools.

You have strong time management skills with ability to make independent decisions and problem-solve complex issues on the ground to facilitate efficient survey operations.

Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills as well as tact and diplomacy to advise and consult a range of audiences is required for this position. You will use these skills to interview and extract information from landowners, to resolve issues cooperatively with internal and external stakeholders and to testify as an expert witness on matters related to legal surveys. Your attention to detail will be key in this role to extract, validate, manipulate data and reflect on information received from a variety of sources. You are a results-oriented individual with a high degree of initiative and the ability to work independently and in a team environment.

Experience surveying in remote locations, including the use of chainsaw to maintain and clear boundary lines would be an asset.

A valid driver’s license is required. You may be required to operate department vehicles including off road vehicles, boats and equipment, work in remote areas and travel long distances on foot over rough terrain and periodic travel by helicopter.

We will assess the above qualifications using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s).

Equivalency

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs.  For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees.

Working Conditions

Travel extensively year-round throughout assigned region for field work; travel can include use of ATV’s, snowmobiles, boats and helicopters.

Field work locations vary extensively and include high traffic highways, construction sites, remote back country, offshore islands.

Works outside in various weather conditions with exposure to the elements, i.e. heat, cold, wind, and rough terrain.

May be exposed to insects of every nature, aggressive wildlife and poisonous plants.

What We Offer

• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies.
• Countless career paths.
• A dynamic, client-focused office environment where service excellence and teamwork are valued.